Weekly Highlights Feb 3-9
This week was a little quieter than usual since I was feeling under the weather, but that didn’t stop me from squeezing in some fun discoveries. I spent some time exploring the Financial District—normally not my go-to neighborhood, but I was pleasantly surprised by a few hidden gems.
Sift Coffee ☕️
First up was Sift, a charming little coffee shop that brings a cozy, elevated touch to the FiDi caffeine scene. They offer a beautifully curated specialty coffees, teas, and pastries menu. What sets them apart? Their dedication to high-quality ingredients and expert brewing techniques. The minimalist yet warm interior makes it a perfect spot to escape the chaos of downtown. Whether you’re craving a silky oat milk latte or a classic pour-over, Sift delivers.
Maman Coffee (MCM) & the Almond Croissant Worth Mentioning 🥐
Another coffee stop this week was Maman Coffee (MCM), and let me just say, their almond croissants deserve a standing ovation. Maman is known for its French-inspired pastries and artisanal coffee; this location is no exception. If you’re a fan of flakey, buttery perfection, don’t skip the almond croissant. This is a small location though, so just pop in and pick something up!
Che Li – A Taste of Jiangnan in the East Village 🍽️
By Friday, I was feeling well enough to venture to Che Li in the East Village, a restaurant specializing in Jiangnan cuisine. The space is intimate and decorated with a vintage Shanghai aesthetic that immediately transports you. I particularly loved the braised pork belly with quail eggs—rich, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. The smoked fish had an intriguing depth of flavor, though it wasn’t quite for me, and I probably wouldn’t reorder it. Still, the experience was worth the ambiance and the chance to explore a cuisine that doesn’t get enough love in NYC.
Galentine’s Dinner at RH Rooftop 🌸✨
Saturday called for a Galentine’s dinner at RH Rooftop, and let me tell you—this place is made for girls' nights. The aesthetic is dreamy, with chandeliers, lush greenery, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. It’s upscale without feeling stuffy, making it perfect for a special night out. I wasn’t expecting much from the food, but it was pretty good! The highlight, though, is the first-floor showroom—if you love design, it’s worth stopping by to take in the luxe interiors and furniture setups. I highly recommend it for an elegant yet fun dinner with friends.
Wrapping Up the Week at 5th and Madison 🍻🏈
To close out the week, I headed to 5th and Madison, a lively sports bar in Midtown East. This place is perfect for game day energy, and with the Superbowl, you know the atmosphere was electric. Finding a spot that balances a good selection of drinks, solid bar food, and an enthusiastic crowd is always fun. If you’re looking for a place to catch a game without dealing with the overwhelming chaos of some other sports bars, this one is a solid choice.
A Little Sneak Peek for Next Week… ✈️
Next week, I’ll be in a surprise location, so instead of my usual weekly highlights, I’ll share some travel recommendations! Posts may be a bit delayed, but stay tuned—there’s some exciting content coming your way!